Lerotholi Gabriel
Chachole Tlali
MohmedDuvesh Patel
Lebona Leokaoke
Maaz Khan
Inshaf farook
Kenneth Boniface
Peter Aho
Mohameed Taiwo
Chima Akachukwu
Elochukwu Ndubudem
Sylvester Okpe
Ridwan Abdul Kareem✱
Vincent Adewoye
Miracle Akhigbe✱
Tsepiso Chaoana
Thamae Gladwin
Under a scorching 31.7 °C sky at the Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 2, the final over of the Men's T20 World Cup Africa Sub Regional Qualifier C 2026 turned into a heart‑stopping thriller. With Nigeria needing just four runs off the last ball, Ridwan Abdul Kareem unleashed a decisive boundary that sealed a three‑run victory over Lesotho, sending the home crowd into rapturous applause.
Match Summary
Lesotho won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping to set a defendable total on a pitch that promised some assistance for the bowlers. However, the Lesotho batting line‑up faltered early, losing wickets at regular intervals. Kenneth Boniface provided a brief spark with figures of 2/14 in his two overs, but the damage was done. Lesotho were bowled out for just 62 all out in 12.5 overs, with a Lesotho T20I score that reflected their struggle against disciplined Nigerian bowling.
In reply, Nigeria’s openers got off to a brisk start. Ridwan Abdul Kareem, promoted to the top order, smashed 28 runs off 18 balls, including three fours and a towering six that showcased his power hitting. Supported by a steady partnership, Nigeria chased down the target in just 7.4 overs, finishing on 65/3. The win was clinched with a dramatic boundary off the final delivery, leaving Lesotho stunned and the home side jubilant.
Key Performances
Ridwan Abdul Kareem (Nigeria) – 28 runs off 18 balls (4 fours, 1 six). His aggressive intent set the tone for the chase and proved the difference in a low‑scoring affair.
Inshaf Farook (Nigeria) – 2/19 in 3 overs. Farook’s disciplined line kept the Lesotho middle order in check, picking crucial wickets at the death.
Tsepiso Chaoana (Nigeria) – 1/21 in 3 overs. Chaoana’s early breakthroughs helped restrict Lesotho to a modest total.
Kenneth Boniface (Lesotho) – 2/14 in 2 overs. Despite the loss, Boniface’s economy and wicket‑taking were the bright spots for Lesotho.
Mohameed Taiwo (Lesotho) – 1/2 in 1 over. Taiwo’s tight spell gave Lesotho a brief respite before the wickets piled up.
Turning Points
The match hinged on three pivotal moments. First, the early loss of Lesotho’s top order to Inshaf Farook’s disciplined spell left them reeling at 15/3. Second, Ridwan Abdul Kareem’s rapid 28 shifted momentum, turning a modest chase into a confident pursuit. Finally, the last‑ball boundary – a clean hit over mid‑wicket – not only sealed the win but also underscored Nigeria’s composure under pressure.
Series Implications
This narrow victory propels Nigeria to the top of Group C, giving them a crucial edge as the qualifier progresses. The win also boosts Nigeria’s net run rate, a vital factor in a tightly contested tournament. For Lesotho, the loss highlights the need to strengthen their middle order and develop death‑over strategies. Both teams will look to regroup ahead of their next fixtures, with Nigeria aiming to maintain momentum and Lesotho seeking redemption.
Fans following Nigeria cricket today will be eager to see if the side can continue its aggressive brand of cricket, while supporters of Lesotho will hope their bowlers can replicate the early success they displayed. Stay tuned for live updates on the Men's T20 World Cup Africa Sub Regional Qualifier C 2026 live score as the tournament unfolds.